Please read our Practice Update.
Effective April 2nd, our office will be closed to non-emergency patients to prevent the further spread of the COVID-19 virus as recommended by the CDC and American Dental Association. Our staff will be reaching out to patients to reschedule any currently scheduled appointments. As of now, we are closed until further notice.
If you are in pain or have an emergency dental need, we can still see you during this time. Please call the office and the answer machine will direct you how to contact us.

Dental Exams & X-rays

It is recommended that you have an exam once a year. At this frequency, most problems can be caught early.

What to Expect

Dr. McPherson will first examine your mouth using a mirror, dental picks, and high intensity lights. He will be looking for cracked and decayed teeth, as well as review other important items such as:

* Medical history review: Dr. McPherson will want to discuss any current or changes in your medical history that can affect your
your dental health.
* Tooth decay and/or cracked teeth: Your teeth will be examined for any possible decay or cracking to prevent further
complications.
* Grinding and/or clinching of the teeth: Your mouth/teeth will be checked for any signs of grinding/clinching that may be
happening. Grinding of the teeth often happens during sleep or stressful situations, and many people are not even aware that
they are even doing it.
* Oral Cancer Screening: The face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, cheeks, gums, and tissues will be checked for any evidence of oral
cancer.
* Gum disease: Your gums and bones around the teeth will be evaluated for any signs of periodontal disease.
* Existing restorations: All current fillings, crowns, bridges, and other restorations will be examined to be sure they are all in good
order.

Diagnostic x-rays are taken as part of dental exams to reveal any hidden problems that can not be easily seen or diagnosed, especially in areas below the gums. Bitewing x-rays are taken every 12 months, and a panoramic x-ray (full facial) is taken every 5 years.